Matthew Joseph Walsh

WALSH, Matthew Joseph Of Rohnert Park, passed away early on the morning of July 6, 2001, attended by his loving wife and family. He was 43 years old. Born in 1958 in San Mateo, CA to John Walsh Sr. and Joan Walsh, Matt is loved by his wife Allyson, son Andrew and daughter Claire. He is also survived and loved by his brother John Walsh, sister-in-law Carmen and nephew James; brother Mark Walsh, sister-in-law Cathy, nephew Johnny, niece Colleen and brother James Walsh, all of Santa Rosa; brother Luke Walsh of Healdsburg and sister Maureen Shandobil, brother-in-law Randy, nephews Ben and Baxter of Alameda, CA; aunt Mary Sarris of Santa Rosa; cousins Steve of Healdsburg and Greg of Los Angeles; sister-in-law Laurie Andrews, brother-in-law Bill, nephew Zach of Eureka; brother-in-law Scott Banks of New York City, and niece Willow of Santa Cruz and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins by the dozens. After serving his apprenticeship he became an accomplished journeyman carpenter working on many projects in Sonoma County. He was a loyal trade unionist and an active member of Carpenters Local 751. He worked for many contracting firms during his 22 years in the building trade including Roy Nonella Construction, Petersen Builders, Inc., and Bohemian Grove in Monte Rio. Matt studied martial arts at Studio Duvall in Santa Rosa, earning his black belt in Tang Soo Do. A devoted family man, Matt was a member of the Rancho Cotate Football Boosters and served as coach and team dad on numerous Rohnert Park youth sports teams. He was always proud of his childrens’ accomplishments and took great joy in tending to his family. He was often referred to as Mr. Mom, and liked nothing better that to have friends and family join him for backyard barbecues and 49er games. An outgoing and personable man, Matt was most loved for his sense of humor. He was a loyal and deeply devoted friend. The family wishes to acknowledge the excellent medical care Matt received during his illness. In particular, Dr. Gary Johanson, Dr. Ian Anderson, the staff and nurses at Redwood Regional Oncology Center, 3 West, Memorial Hospital, St. Joseph VNA, and St. Joseph Palliative Care Unit. Matt had an abiding respect for his fellow man and believed in building community. He lived this commitment and devotion to others by simple acts. In lieu of gifts or donations, the family asks that you do the same by extending your hand to others. Friends are invited to attend a Funeral Mass on Wednesday, July 11, 2001 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Rose Catholic Church, 398 10th Street, Santa Rosa. Interment to follow at Calvary Catholic Cemetery, 2930 Bennett Valley Road, Santa Rosa. Evening Vigil Rites will be on Tuesday, July 10, 2001 at 6:00 p.m. at DANIELS CHAPEL OF THE ROSES FUNERAL HOME, 707-525-3730.